Are you considering buccal fat removal to counter the effects of a “baby face” and achieve a chiseled, sculpted look? Understanding what to expect during buccal fat removal recovery can improve your aesthetic experience and outcome.
While it’s a minimal-downtime procedure, cheek reduction surgery delivers subtle yet significant changes to your profile. Let’s explore how to make your recovery as seamless as possible.
How Long Is Buccal Fat Removal Recovery?
Before we share a general recovery timeline, it’s important to point out that every patient’s recovery varies. Some factors that will affect your recovery include the extent of your fat removal and whether you combine your procedure with chin implant surgery, chin or neck liposuction, or other complementing facial plastic surgery procedures.
Buccal Fat Removal Recovery Time Line
In general, here’s what to expect during your recovery:
Immediately after surgery:
- Some swelling and discomfort are common.
- Keep your head elevated to reduce swelling.
- Most patients resume work and nonstrenuous activities within 2 to 3 days.
1 to 2 weeks after surgery:
- Initial results emerge as swelling decreases gradually.
- Resume workouts and other rigorous activities (once cleared).
3 to 4 weeks after surgery:
- Final results emerge as swelling resolves.
- You won’t have any visible scarring (incisions are made inside the mouth).
- Enjoy showing off your chiseled profile.
After buccal fat removal, most patients enjoy a relatively quick and smooth recovery compared to other facial surgeries. An impressive 93% of RealSelf patients who had buccal fat removal deem the surgery “Worth It,” indicating that patients are overwhelmingly satisfied with their recovery and results.
How Long Does Buccal Fat Removal Last?
Once the fat pads are surgically removed, they do not regenerate. Therefore, your results are potentially permanent if you don’t gain weight.
Contrary to popular belief, buccal fat removal surgery does not accelerate facial aging. However, it is important to choose a skilled facial plastic surgeon who won’t remove so much buccal fat that your face appears sunken as you age. While you may notice subtle changes in your facial volume or contours as the years go by, your results should remain intact. Nonsurgical procedures such as JUVÉDERM® or Sculptra® Aesthetic can help you address volume loss and skin laxity as needed.
Tips For a Smooth Recovery
Even though buccal fat removal is considered a well-tolerated surgery with minimal downtime, closely following your post-op protocol is essential. You can set yourself up for a smoother recovery and optimal healing by following these tips:
- Keep your head elevated (even while sleeping).
- Apply cold compresses to manage swelling and discomfort.
- Stick to soft foods for at least 3 days.
- Stay hydrated with drinks such as iced water.
- Avoid smoking and other unhealthy habits.
- Be Careful brushing your teeth for 2 weeks, and use only up and down strokes. No electric toothbrush.
Buccal fat removal is extremely safe when performed by an experienced board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Still, our team is only a phone call away should you have any concerns during your recovery.
Schedule Your Consultation
When you’re ready to reshape your facial contours with buccal fat removal, we encourage you to request a personalized consultation online or call us at (407) 333-3040 to schedule an appointment.
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